Best Armed Forces Day Celebrations in America

Armed Forces Day, celebrated the third Saturday in May, is an international holiday which honors the brave men and women of the military. While in the past, each branch of the United States military had its own celebration, in August 1949, Secretary of Defense announced the created of the unified celebration and President Harry Truman established the holiday through presidential proclamation.

A Bit of History

Since its creation, Armed Forces Day is celebrated on the third Saturday of May and is now part of the Armed Forces Week festivities. In 2010, the date of Armed Forces Day is May 15th.

Since 1950, the day has been celebrated in America with pageantry and parades. The very first Armed Forces Day included parades, open houses, and even air shows. In the nation's capitol, Washington D.C., 10,000 troops of all branches of the military, cadets, and veterans participated in a march.

The Best Armed Forces Day Celebrations in the United States

Bremerton, Washington

On Saturday May 15, 2010, Bremerton, Washington will hold its 62nd Annual Dignity Memorial Armed Forces Day Parade. This celebration will include participation from area citizens. Other Bremerton events include a 5K run/2M walk and the Pepsi Armed Forces Golf Tournament. Prior to all the golf, running, walking and marching, the Bremertonians will have already enjoyed week long activities including great food, programs, and fun.

Ridgefield, New Jersey

Forget those Jersey Shore kids, Armed Forces Day will be the center attraction on May 15th. The City of Ridgefield along with its other activities will host an Armed Forces Day Tribute Concert. During the free concert, Patriot Brass Ensemble will perform 200 years of inspiring and patriotic music.

Torrance, California

Making Armed Forces Day a part of a three day celebration, Torrance, California offer creates a memorable celebration. The City of Torrance will have military exhibits, the Coast Guard Band performance and a spectacular parade as part of its 51st Annual Armed Forces Day Celebration.

Harrisonburg, Pennsylvania

Harrisonburg will hold its 9th Annual Armed Forces Day celebration. There will be concerts, races and a return of a familiar Good Morning Vietnam radio broadcast. The Navy's Mini Fleet, a ship model exhibit, is scheduled to steam into the City.

Lawton, Oklahoma

The home of Fort Sill plays host to another grand Armed Forces Day celebration. Nestled in the Wichita Mountains, the town of Lawton is an incredibly beautiful place. It's celebration may boast to be one of the largest Armed Forces Day parades in the country. More than 100 parade entries are expected. Following the grand parade, a concert from country stars, including Lee Greenwood, is set. There will be fireworks, food and other activities for the family.

Sicne 1950, Armed Forces Day has been a source of pride for Americans and a way to honor the many men and women who bravely serve our nation. Whether it's through a private barbeque or a spectacular parade, remember and celebrate Armed Forces Day.

For more information about these and other Armed Forces Day celebrations, check out the following links:

bremertonchamber.org/ArmedForc esFestiva

http://www.ci.torrance.ca.us/ArmedForcesDay.htm

http://events.nydailynews.com/ridgefield-nj/events/show/114961125-armed-forces-day-tribute-concert

http://www.lasr.net/travel/city.php?Lawton&Oklahoma&&City_ID=OK0203017&Event_ID=OK0203017e003&VE=Y

http://www.altiusdirectory.com/Society/armed-forces-day-celebration.php